From the historic streets of Baghdad to the serene landscapes of Canada, Mais Al-Sheikhly's journey as an artist is as vivid and captivating as her paintings.

Born in Iraq's cradle of civilization, Mais Al-Sheikhly embodies a tale of resilience, perseverance, and undying passion for art. While the vibrant hues and textures of her pieces dazzle the eye, it's the heart and soul poured into each stroke that tells the unique story. Using the brush as a medium, Al-Sheikhly channels and translates her profound emotions onto the canvas, crafting narratives of her past, hopes, dreams, and the ever-evolving tapestry of life. 

As a natural-born artist, Al-Sheikhly has confronted numerous challenges and transitions, each of which has contributed to her unique artistic narrative. A pivotal moment during her younger years led her to immigrate to Canada, where she faced the daunting task of adapting to a new culture. This profound shift not only evoked deep vulnerability but also permeated her emotional core profoundly. In these adjusting times, art became Mais's refuge, therapeutic space, and sanctuary where she found solace from judgment and the confinements of societal expectations. In front of the canvas, she was unburdened, free to be her authentic self, and untouched by ridicule.

Al-Sheikhly insatiable curiosity and desire to express herself led her to delve into the works of Picasso and the intricacies of cubism. Despite facing initial challenges in securing formal art lessons, Al-Sheikhly embarked on her artistic journey conducting extensive research on cubism and abstract art. It wasn't long before her unique artistry caught the attention of renowned Canadian watercolor artist Barry McCarthy forming a deep connection that influenced her artistic path. 

While pursuing her studies in Math and Science at the University of Waterloo, Al-Sheikhly initiated her first thought-provoking collection, titled "Peace in the Middle-East, Is it an impossible dream?", which was proudly displayed at a prestigious Art Expo in Toronto. Following a period where inspiration temporarily waned, Al-Sheikhly took a break and ventured to Jordan to pursue Pharmacy studies. In this new environment her creativity rekindled, giving rise to her second collection, "Modern Arab Woman," a masterpiece showcased at the illustrious Royal Cultural Center in Amman, Jordan. Returning to Canada to pursue a career as a pharmacist, Al-Sheikhly’s motivation for painting flows culminating with the third collection "911 Pandemic, Is it too late?" in 2018. The 'Is there Justice? Part 1' series emerged during the challenges of the pandemic in 2020 and captivated the hearts and minds of all who experienced her visually astounding pieces during the hard times. 

Mais Al-Sheikhly’s paintings circulate regularly at international fairs. In 2023, she debuted her new collection at Art Expo New York, a juried contemporary art fair which, since 1978, showcased original artwork from the leading artist like Andy Warhol, Robert Rauschenberg, and Yayoi Kusama. Following the success in New York, Al-Sheikhly is presenting her collection at Red Dot Miami during Art Basel and Miami Art Week in December 2023. Al-Sheikhly's vibrant compositions are collected internationally and are being recognized by numerous collectors both public and private. 

Mais Al-Sheikhly's art stands as an eloquent testament to her extraordinary talent for not just creating, but also delving into the profound depths of human experience. Her artistic journey extends a warm invitation, encouraging you to embark on a profound exploration of the world as she perceives it. Al-Sheikhly’s fascination with the contrasts of good and evil, justice and injustice, and the intricate nature of humanity fuels her artistry. She fearlessly confronts uncomfortable truths that often elude discussion, daring to shine a light on the dark corners of society that many prefer to ignore. It is within these uncomfortable realities that Al-Sheikhly finds inspiration to seek solutions, tirelessly striving to mend a world that sometimes appears fractured and beyond redemption. 

In exploring Mais Al-Sheikhly’s artistry, you join her in the quest to unravel the intricacies of culture, humanity, and creativity, all while engaging in meaningful conversations about the world we inhabit and the complexity of all humans. Welcome to the world of vivid creativity, where every piece whispers a deeper tale, compelling you to lose yourself in its emotional depths!

Exhibition History

2023                 Red Dot Expo, Miami

                       Artist Project, Toronto

                       NY Art Expo, New York

2021-22       “Click”, Virtual Solo Exhibition, Kefi Art Gallery, Toronto

2020                “Justice, Part 1”, Solo Exhibition, Arta Gallery, Toronto

2018                 “911 Pandemic. Is it too late?” Solo Exhibition, Toronto

2010                 “Modern Arab Woman”, Solo Exhibition, Royal Cultural Center, Amman, Jordan

2007                 Piece in the Middle-East, Is it an impossible dream?" Art Expo, Toronto